The Oseana - Art and Culture Center is located on Bjørnefjorden (the Bearfiord) with magnificent views of the Hardanger Mountains. The building houses a Gallery, an Auditorium, and a restaurant.

The brief called for a cultural center of high architectural quality and optimal energy and environmental solutions, as well as a strong dialog with the surrounding landscape.

Photo Thomas Mayer

Inspired by the Oselvar, the traditional small sailboat, the curved glazed facade facing the fiord is shaped like a sail. As part of the buildings energy measures the roof is equipped with the largest solar panel in Norway; 463 square meters. The Main Hall is clad in Platinum Black slate from the Indian side of the Himalayas.

Photo Thomas MayerPhoto Thomas Mayer

Photo Thomas Mayer

Photo Thomas Mayer

Located on level two the lobby has direct access to the big terrace overlooking the fiord and the mountains. The lobby floor, as well as the paving on the viewing bridge above, is a Norwegian slate that relates to the rocky shoreline. The main auditorium is entered from the lobby.

The art gallery and restaurant are both located on level one, behind the glazed facade, overlooking the landscape. The Gallery is built around the Grieg collection of art, consisting mainly of fine art paintings, but also has temporary exhibitions by other artists.